ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
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Hi,

 

I am with a non-profit working to establish a new science center.  Some of
us are concerned with mission, strategy, exhibit philosophy and
effectiveness of science and technology centers.  Your responses below will
assist us with our internal discussions.  Thank you in advance for
participating in this survey.

 

1.       Mission - main objective (choose the most important):

a.       Provide positive visitor experiences that are persuasive in a
person's choice of academic courses and major, and career - in the areas of
math, science and engineering.

b.      Provide education and learning in the areas of math, science and
engineering as an adjunct activity to that of the region's schools, in
cooperation with them.

2.       Strategy (choose one):  

a.       It is essential to have a central building, a physical center, and
one that is architecturally noteworthy.

b.      Portable exhibits, a science center without walls, a digital virtual
science center, etc., should instead be pursued, due to the high cost of a
building and  digital/virtual technologies that are increasingly popular and
effective.

3.       Exhibit philosophy (choose one):

a.       Experience-based exhibits, with each exhibit planned on the basis
of specific desired experiences.

b.      Learning-based exhibits, with each exhibit specified in terms of
desired learning outcomes.

c.       Both (not something to get "religious" about).

4.       Effectiveness: 

a.       Is there any reasonably "hard" evidence from formal studies that
science and technology centers have made a difference in the areas of (a)
academic course and major selection, and (b) grades and test scores?  If so,
where can one obtain information/get a copy, etc.?

b.      Same question, but re: anecdotal evidence?  If so, what?

5.       Strategy:  Is it possible to make a significant difference with a
science and technology center in the areas of math and science choice and
achievement, or is a more appropriate leverage point working directly with
our educators and elected officials to transform math and science education?
For example, if a new physical science center were to cost $30M, would that
money be better spent in organizing citizens into a coalition for change,
with attendant lobbying?

 

Thanks very much,

 

 

Dave Remington

[log in to unmask]

Cell 509-251-2698

Fax 509-357-7845

 


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